​Diwali is the Hindu festival of lights, celebrated every year in late October or early November. This year, thousands of Hindus and people from different religions celebrated across New Zealand, but what many people may not know is that Diwali has a deep-seated tradition that includes gambling.

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Diwali is a five-day celebration where people worship the goddess of wealth Lakshimi, and the god of knowledge Ganesha, often by buying gold, silver and other precious goods. The celebration includes lighting up their homes with diyas (clay lamps), decorating their homes, spending time with loved ones, praying, indulging in delicious Diwali sweets, letting off fireworks, and engaging in the age-old tradition of gambling.

Traditionally, Diwali places great importance on wealth, and gambling during Diwali is thought to be lucky for Hindus. Hindu folklore tells the story of the Indian goddess, Parvati, who played a game of dice against her husband Lord Shiva, and won, after which Lord Shiva decreed that whomever gambled on Diwali night will be prosperous.

For many, gambling during Diwali is just a bit of fun, but for those who struggle with harmful gambling it can be difficult to maintain abstinence from gambling during the festive season. If you’re struggling with harmful gambling after the festive season, you may wish to talk to someone about your gambling.

ASHA is a free and confidential service, with trained counsellors who are available to support anyone impacted by harmful gambling – that includes the person gambling and anyone else who is impacted by that person’s gambling. ASHA counsellors speak Hindi and Punjabi and provide culturally appropriate support for the South Asian population in New Zealand. Call 0800 862 342 or email help@asianfamilyservices.nz.

2. Talk to someone: Talk to people you trust. Have a list of people you can call or talk to as part of your recovery plan. Let go of people who are not supportive.

3. Ask for support: Ask for ongoing support. Call the Problem Gambling Foundation, Asian Family Services, Mapu Maia or the Gambling Helpline for ongoing support. Stay in touch with supportive people. Attend regular self-help meetings and make new friends.​4. Plan your days: Plan your days so they are supportive of your recovery. Maybe include a social activity.

6. Keep yourself busy: Listen to music, visit a friend, do a crossword. Look for new ideas and be open minded. Be willing to try other things instead of gambling.​7. Let go of past issues: Work on forgiveness. Never mind what could happen. Enjoy today. Live today. Celebrate being gamblefree!

8. Do exercise: Go for a walk, head to the beach for a swim. Regular exercise is not only great for the body, but great for your mental health too.

9. List grateful things: Write a list of things you are grateful for. Accept that recovery takes time. Take a breath.

10. Write down your feelings: Keep a journal or write yourself a letter. Be mindful in writing your thoughts. Practice being in the moment. The act of writing can be very powerful. Write down your goals, your dreams, if you’re having a good day or a bad day. This will give you something physical to reflect on and see how far you’ve come.

11. Volunteer your time: Finding you have too much time on your hands? Consider volunteering. Enjoy the experience of helping others.